A state of emergency has been declared in Pakistan’s Diamer district after a deadly cloudburst triggered flash floods in the Babusar area, killing at least five people and leaving several others missing.
According to Diamer Deputy Commissioner Atta-ur-Rehman, the cloudburst occurred near Babusar Top, unleashing powerful floodwaters that swept away tourists and locals. So far, four tourists and one local resident have been confirmed dead, while a three-year-old child remains missing. Search and rescue teams are actively working in the area, using sniffer dogs to locate survivors.
The flood has severely damaged the Babusar Road, with 7–8 kilometers of it completely destroyed. Between 10 to 15 vehicles, including passenger coasters, were swept away. Landslides triggered by the cloudburst also led to the closure of the road at multiple points. Power and communication lines have been affected, making relief efforts more challenging.
Over 200 stranded tourists have been safely evacuated to Chilas, where hotels and guest houses have been opened for free public use. The Gilgit-Baltistan government spokesperson Faizullah Firaq confirmed the destruction of a girls’ school, two hotels, a police post, and over 50 homes connected to the Babusar Highway. Four connecting bridges and 15 key points along the road have been blocked.
The Pakistan Army and GB Scouts are conducting rescue operations using helicopters and ground teams. Emergency supplies and food are being distributed to the affected population. Meanwhile, heavy machinery is being deployed to clear roads and restore access. Search and rescue missions continue for missing individuals, while injured victims have been transported to local hospitals.